Hooker Matt Faessler has committed his future to both the Queensland Reds and Australian Rugby by signing a two-year contract extension, ensuring he remains with the team until the end of the 2027 season.
Born in Queensland’s Darling Downs region, Faessler has had a unique path to professional rugby. He first showcased his potential at Brothers in Brisbane’s Hospital Cup before moving to Randwick to play in the Shute Shield competition.
His performances earned him a return to Queensland, where he made his Super Rugby debut for the Reds in 2022. Since then, he has become a key part of the squad, known for his strong scrummaging, set-piece dominance, and ability to contribute around the field.
Faessler’s international career has seen rapid growth, particularly in the past year. In 2024, he made a significant impact, playing in nine Tests and making history as the first Australian hooker to score a hat-trick in a Test match during the Wallabies’ 52-20 win over Wales in Cardiff.
He earned his Wallabies cap against the All Blacks in 2023 and was part of the squad for the 2023 Rugby World Cup. To date, he has collected 14 caps for Australia while also making 45 appearances for the Reds.
His rugby pedigree runs deep, with his maternal grandfather, Vince Bermingham, being a former Wallaby who played in the first Australian team to win the Bledisloe Cup in 1934.
Speaking about his contract extension, Faessler expressed his excitement, stating,
"I’m stoked to have my future secured for the next two years here at the Reds and with Australian Rugby."
Queensland Reds head coach Les Kiss praised Faessler’s resilience and contribution, saying, "Matt has consistently proven himself one of the toughest and most durable hookers in the country.
"From a Queensland and Australian perspective, his commitment for another two years is a real positive."